Occupations of the 1860's

The Civil War was not just a time for battles, but life continued on before, during and after. Many jobs at that time were done by an individual or a small factory, and other positions were newly created during the 1860's due to necessity. We have compiled a small list of occupations for research and study, to hone as a persona to present at reenactments, and to help those new to reenacting to narrow the research field. This is certainly not a complete list, for there are many other occupations that are not listed. We encourage our members to learn all they can about topics that best suit them.

US Patent Office

Telegrapher

Cooper

Woodworker

Box maker

Candlemaker

Cobbler

US Sanitation Commission

Christian Commission

Politician

US Weapons Salesman

Abolitionist

Correspondent

Leather worker

Laundress

Nurse

Spy

Seamstress/tailor

Flag Maker

Illustrator

Farmer

Wheelwright (wagon maker)

Photographer

US Postmaster

US ClerkBanker

Tobacco Farmer

Street vendor

Teacher

Female Treasury worker

Textile worker

Milliner

College professor

Coal Miner

Circus performer

Priest/Nun

Lawyer

Tavern Keeper

Physician/Doctor (local Doctor that would not have traveled with the army)